British Gas: Just 4pc applying to engineering roles are women

British Gas found 13 per cent of young women perceive Stem industries to be sexist (Source: Getty)

British Gas has revealed that just four per cent of applicants to its technical and engineering apprenticeships are women.

Since conducting an analysis of its intake, the company has launched a recruitment drive targeting young women, hosting open days and launching a new mentoring programme.

Claire Miles, managing director for HomeCare at British Gas, said: “I would encourage girls to think about engineering. Apprenticeships are a great way into an organ­isation, and at British Gas they allow you to earn while you learn and develop skills for life.”

British Gas has commissioned a survey of young women and parents, the results of which suggest 48 per cent of young women have never considered working in Stem (science, technology, engineering and maths) sectors. The company’s research also found 13 per cent of young women perceive these industries to be sexist.